Group studies need for homeless shelter in Oxford

OXFORD — Some community leaders say it’s time to consider whether Oxford and Lafayette County should set up a homeless shelter.

The Oxford Eagle reports that local groups assisted more than 300 homeless people last year, some of them children. Most were put in a hotel for two or three nights, though some stayed longer.

Some of the homeless people from Oxford and Lafayette County receive help from the Salvation Army’s regional shelter in Tupelo.

Interfaith Compassion Ministry spends about $55,000 a year helping homeless people in the Oxford area. Jean Shaw, who’s on a committee studying the homelessness issue, says only about 7 percent of those receiving help will return later for more assistance.